Alexander Vasquez is an incoming Ph.D. student in the UCI Department of Physics & Astronomy, where he plans to concentrate in chemical, applied and materials physics. Vazquez has had an interest in physics and astrophysics for as long as he can remember, and he's following that interest into quantum science research that he hopes will improve the efficiency of solar cell devises — work that could improve solar cell technology used here on Earth as well as in space. A strong proponent of neurodiversity in STEM fields, Vasquez's undergraduate career saw him helping create NASA's Neurodiversity Network (N3) — a program that gives neurodiverse students opportunities for research and mentorship in STEM fields. Physics Professor Luis Jauregui is Alexander's advisor.